The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has urged Nigerians to embrace national renewal while calling on leaders to prioritise responsible and people-focused governance as the country begins 2026.
In its New Year message signed by CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, the association reflected on what it described as God’s sustaining mercy over Nigeria in a year defined by economic hardship, insecurity, and deep uncertainty.
CAN noted that the challenges of the past year placed intense pressure on families and communities across the country, warning that the resilience shown by citizens should not be mistaken for overall national well-being.
According to the association, the quiet perseverance of Nigerians underscores the urgent need for healing, justice, and genuine relief.
“The year behind us was a difficult one for many Nigerians. Economic hardship, rising living costs, insecurity, and uncertainty placed enormous strain on families and communities.
ALSO READ: PDP demands people-centered governance in 2026
“These realities cannot be ignored or explained away. The quiet endurance of our people is not a sign that all is well; rather, it is a reminder of how much healing, relief, and justice our nation still needs,” the statement emphasised.
CAN stressed that conversations around reforms, recovery, and growth must result in clear and practical improvements in the everyday lives of citizens.
“As the nation continues to speak about reforms, recovery, and growth, CAN affirms that progress must translate into lived realities.
“Economic advancement must be evident in the daily lives of citizens—when food is affordable, healthcare is accessible, education is attainable, and meaningful work is available. Development that does not touch ordinary lives remains incomplete,” it added.
The Christian body called on leaders to work towards a Nigeria where families live with dignity, young people can confidently plan their future, and communities are no longer paralysed by fear.
It further stressed that public policies should be guided by compassion, responsibility, and a sincere commitment to the common good, especially for the poor and vulnerable.
On the security situation, CAN described the continued presence of terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and violent crime as a serious national challenge, noting that many communities have been displaced and countless lives destroyed.
The association expressed hope that governments at all levels would fulfil commitments to substantially reduce insecurity in the new year.
ALSO READ: Africa Cup of Nations player ratings show Lookman ahead, Chukwueze ranks 3rd
It also urged authorities to urgently outline a clear, time-bound plan for resettling communities displaced by prolonged violence, insisting that it is unjust for citizens to remain indefinitely cut off from their ancestral homes.
CAN added that, beyond emergency assistance, displaced persons must be safely returned to their communities with dignity through restored infrastructure and reliable security.
Addressing fiscal and tax reforms, the association called for prudence, fairness, and restraint, cautioning that economic policies should not deepen the hardship faced by struggling Nigerians.
It advocated targeted protection and support for small businesses, low-income earners and rural communities to ensure a truly inclusive recovery.
CAN also highlighted Nigeria’s moral challenges, including corruption, injustice, and social division, which it said continue to weaken public trust.
It urged leaders to demonstrate integrity, accountability and a genuine spirit of service, noting that true national renewal requires both moral courage and technical competence.
Reaffirming its mission, CAN pledged to continue standing with the people, speaking truth in love, and sustaining hope during difficult times.
The association expressed confidence that Nigeria’s future remains promising and that justice, peace, and restoration are achievable through responsible leadership and national unity.
As the nation moves through 2026, CAN said it remains cautiously optimistic about better days marked by healing, stability, and shared progress.
